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How to Secure Paid Internships in the Hospitality Industry

The global hotel and hospitality industry is growing steadily and accounts for 9.5% of GDP (Gross Domestic-Product) globally and is responsible for the creation of 266 million jobs across the globe.

The advantage that experienced professionals from the hospitality industry have is that they can find jobs anywhere in the world. One also has the flexibility to choose working hours as businesses in this sector tend to operate round-the-clock.

Career Opportunities in the Hospitality Sector

A plethora of job opportunities exist within the hotel/hospitality sector and professionals willing to pursue a career in this growing industry can find work in any of the following sub-sectors:

Hotels and resorts

Restaurants and fast food outlets

Airlines, cruises, tourism

Event management and fashion

Acquiring Relevant Skills

The hospitality and hotel management industry belong to the service sector. The job demands interaction with customers from different cultures and backgrounds almost all the time. People working in this industry need thorough professional training and grooming before they can take up jobs.

The first part of the training is the professional degree or diploma in hospitality which is practically offered by various universities across the globe. The second and more relevant is hands-on experience which one can gain through paid internships.

Paid internships in the hospitality industry provide fresh graduates with an opportunity to get practical hands-on training and a real-world feel for working in the sector. The interns are rotated within the different departments like the kitchen, restaurant, front office, travel desk, housekeeping, concierge and reservations.

Interns can hone their skills and sharpen the rough edges with the guidance provided by the experienced staff. This exposure also helps them make up their mind about which area to specialize in.

College placement: Colleges generally have tie-ups with multiple hotels and establishments where they send the profiles of their students. Students may need to appear for a face-to-face interview before they get shortlisted.

Direct application: Students can also approach the hotel/establishment of their choice by getting in touch with the training or human resources department to check for any relevant openings.

Internship websites: Technology has made it easier now to find paid internships. Students can register themselves on these online platforms where internship postings are made by various establishments.

Preparing for an Internship

Students should keep in mind that they are competing against many other applicants for the same internship. Therefore, they should ensure that they have secured good grades and their classroom attendance is up to the mark.

The profile and CV should be carefully prepared to highlight the strengths and achievements of applicants. Applicants should also conduct thorough research about the establishment – their culture, management and reputation to prepare well for the interview.

It is also a good idea to speak to some experienced professionals from the industry to gain an insight into frequently asked questions about paid internships in the hospitality industry.

The hospitality industry can provide an enriching and rewarding career to those who have a passion for serving others. The hotel and hospitality sector is growing at about 6% and will continue to provide lucrative job opportunities across the globe.

Students aspiring to work in the sector should work hard for securing a paid internship which in turn will provide them with the required launch pad for the amazing journey ahead.